The National Industrial Research and Development Agency (NIRDA), in collaboration with the Belgian Development Agency (Enabel), launched the Urban Economic Development Intervention (UEDi) to fortify urbanization through infrastructure development and bolstering the market for locally sourced construction materials.
Within the intervention, the Business Development Service (BDS) for the construction industry value chains was entrusted to Business Professionals Network Rwanda (BPN). Tasked with supporting 75 selected companies in the construction materials value chains such as Clay, Stones, Bamboo, and Byproducts, BPN aimed to elevate these entities to a level where they can sustainably contribute to the escalating pace of urbanization, thereby stimulating growth in the construction sector.
2024 marked the end of this three-year project implemented by BPN in collaboration with NIRDA and Enabel. This milestone is a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and a shared vision for sustainable business development in Rwanda.
The project, driven by the partnership of three organizations: Enabel, NIRDA, and BPNchanged the trajectory of 75 companies and catalyzed substantial growth across multiple dimensions:
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- 2,058 jobs were created, with 58% of these positions filled by women, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and gender equity.
- 28 new products were launched, highlighting innovation and market responsiveness.
- 55% of the companies adopted digital marketing, underscoring a shift towards modern business practices.
- 15% of the companies entered the export market, reflecting their readiness to compete regionally.
- A remarkable 85% sustainability rate, ensuring long-term business viability.
- 100% program satisfaction and 93% retention, with only a 7% dropout rate, serving as evidence of the program’s effectiveness and value to participants.
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